International Framework for Nuclear Energy Cooperation to Hold Ministerial-Level Meeting Sept. 29 in Warsaw, Poland

Washington, D.C. – The U.S. Department of Energy today announced that Deputy Secretary of Energy Daniel Poneman will lead the U.S. delegation to the International Framework for Nuclear Energy Cooperation (IFNEC) Executive Committee Meeting on Sept. 29 in Warsaw, Poland. The ministerial-level conference aims to advance cooperation among participating states to support the peaceful use of nuclear energy in a manner that meets high standards of safety, security and nonproliferation. The meeting will also feature video remarks by Microsoft founder Bill Gates, who is expected to discuss the challenges and opportunities associated with nuclear energy, including the key role of private sector innovation in partnership with governments.

“The International Framework for Nuclear Energy Cooperation is part of a new framework for civil nuclear cooperation to assure that countries have access to safe, secure, and reliable nuclear energy for peaceful purposes, while minimizing the risks of proliferation,” said Deputy Secretary Poneman. “This event illustrates the international community’s commitment to nuclear safety and to working together to support nuclear energy’s continued contributions to meeting growing energy demand, reducing the global carbon footprint, and increasing economic prosperity.”

Sixty-two nations and three inter-governmental organizations, including 29 full member countries, 30 observer countries and three newly-invited countries, have been invited to attend the Ministerial. The event will focus on the importance of nuclear safety, financing for nuclear power projects, approaches to comprehensive nuclear fuel services and ways to support the development of nuclear energy infrastructure globally, such as workforce training and expert-based information sharing.

IFNEC, a unique international nuclear framework, consists of 59 countries and is dedicated to the safe, secure and responsible use of nuclear energy. It is supported by three international observer organizations: the International Atomic Energy Agency, Euratom, and the Generation IV International Forum.